05-04-201305-04-2013
Skinner Auctions
Skinner AuctionsMarlborough MA
May 4, 2013 10:00 AMCalender
320

Morris Tobias Binnacle Timepiece

Sell one like this
$4,800$4,000
Auction: Clocks, Watches & Scientific Instruments - 2652MLocation: MarlboroughDate / Time: May 04, 2013 10:00AM

Description:

Morris Tobias Binnacle Timepiece, No. 123, London, c. 1795, with fusee movement signed Morris. Tobias, No. 123, London, foliate-pierced balance bridge engraved, Patent Morris Tobias, London, slow/fast regulation, 4 1/2-in. enamel dial, No. 122, with brass hands, inner Roman numeral chapter ring and two outer sets of Arabic numerals for time and bells of the watch, in lacquered-brass bowl on pivots, in dovetailed mahogany case with aperture in lid, wd. 7 1/2 in.

Provenance: Sotheby's New York, Masterpieces from the Time Museum, October 13, 2004, Lot 639. Christie's London, March 8, 1984, lot 89. Morris Tobias is listed, in various forms, at 68 Bell Dock Yard, Wapping, from 1794-1840. He was the patentee of this unusual form of timepiece designed for the use by the Quartermaster on board ship. The hour hand moves in the regular fashion but the outer ring is calibrated every half hour with the number of bells to be rung, and their timing is signified by the minute hand which rotates once every half hour.
Estimate $4,000-6,000


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

Keywords

London, Morris Tobias, Morris Tobias Binnacle Timepiece, Time Museum